Gov. Mike Pence ceremonially signed two bills: broadband ready communities (HEA 1101), which aims to facilitate more investment in broadband infrastructure to support access for Hoosiers across our state, and taxation of Internet access (SEA 80), which prohibits government from collecting a tax on Internet access or use.

BY KARA BROOKS
Gov. Mike Pence Office

INDIANAPOLIS — Today, Gov. Mike Pence ceremonially signed two bills: broadband ready communities (HEA 1101), which aims to facilitate more investment in broadband infrastructure to support access for Hoosiers across our state, and taxation of Internet access (SEA 80), which prohibits government from collecting a tax on Internet access or use.

“Since day one, my administration has been focused on economic development for all areas of our state and on reducing and preventing burdensome regulations on Hoosiers,” said Governor Pence. “Today, we take two steps forward in achieving these goals. I applaud the work of the Indiana General Assembly for their unanimous and bipartisan support of both important bills, and I am honored to ceremonially sign them today.”

The governor was joined by several stakeholders including representatives from AT&T, Verizon, Comcast, CenturyLink, Farm Bureau, the Indiana Chamber, Broadband and Technology Association, the Cable Association, and the Association of Cities and Towns. Legislators in attendance included Representative Eric Koch (R – Bedford), Bob Cherry (R – Greenfield), and Alan Morrison (R –Terre Haute) and Senators Erin Houchin (R – Salem) and Jim Merritt (R – Indianapolis).